Feasibility and Real-Life Effectiveness of a Cognitive Rehabilitation Package(Cimorgh) on Iranian Illiterate Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Pilot Nonrandomized Clinical Trial Publisher



Zendehbad AS ; Noroozian M ; Barzkar F ; Shati M
Source: Applied Neuropsychology: Adult Published:2026

Abstract

Illiterate older adults are at heightened risk for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and subsequent dementia, yet few cognitive rehabilitation interventions are tailored for this vulnerable group. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of the Cognitive Intervention with-Movement-Rhythm-Game-Hobby (CIMORGH) cognitive rehabilitation package illiterate Iranian older adults with MCI. In a nonrandomized clinical trial, 30 illiterate older adults with MCI were assigned to an intervention group (n = 15; CIMORGH package, 24 sessions over 12 weeks) or a control group (n = 15; no intervention). Outcomes were assessed at baseline and one month post-intervention using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), LEIPAD Quality of Life Questionnaire, and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15). Compared to controls, the intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in global cognition (MMSE change, Cohen’s d = 2.43; 95% CI: 1.40 to 3.44), quality of life (LEIPAD change, Cohen’s d = 1.09; 95% CI: 0.40 to 1.76), and depressive symptoms (GDS change, Cohen’s d = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.13 to 2.98). The intervention was well-tolerated, with high adherence and no reported adverse events. The CIMORGH package is feasible and highly effective in improving cognition, quality of life, and mood among illiterate older adults with MCI, with large between-group effect sizes. © 2026 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.